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Executives from General Motors, Isuzu and Spartan with the Isuzu-based, low cab-forward medium-duty trucks the companies began building at Spartan’s assembly plant in Charlotte, MI.

First Chevrolet medium-duty truck rolls off assembly line at Spartan Motors

2016-08-02
Jennifer Shuttleworth

Spartan Motors, along with General Motors and Isuzu Commercial Truck of America executives, celebrated the new Chevrolet medium-duty, gasoline-powered trucks as the first unit rolled off the production line at the Spartan Motors plant July 27 in Charlotte, MI. The new Chevrolet 3500, 3500HD, 4500, 4500HD, 4500XD, 5500HD and 5500XD truck line is based on Isuzu’s N-Series design and are the result of a strategic business relationship between GM and Isuzu. Spartan was awarded the build contract and is responsible for the assembly of the trucks.

"Production of the Chevrolet medium-duty line begins in earnest today as we witness the first of what we expect to be many of these durable and maneuverable vehicles roll off our assembly line," said Daryl Adams, President and Chief Executive Officer, Spartan Motors.

Spartan will manufacture seven different Chevrolet models, including regular-cab and crew-cab body-style options and chassis lengths ranging from 109 to 212 in (277 to 538 mm). In addition, there are several available drivetrain options, including a GM-made 6.0-L V8 gasoline engine as well as Isuzu-sourced 3.0- or 5.2-L turbodiesels. All engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

After a decades-long presence, GM exited the medium-duty truck segment in 2009 at the beginning of its wide-ranging corporate restructuring and eventual bankruptcy. An executive told a trade publication in 2015 the market is projected to be roughly 30,000 units annually for low cab-forward medium-duty trucks such as those it will build in this new venture with Isuzu and Spartan.